The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) congress was held in London this year from 29 August – 2 September 2017
Participation in the congress offered an exceptional opportunity for me. I was fortunate to be on the steering committee and involved in planning and delivery of sessions.
The conference offered all one would expect from a global meeting in this speciality, with world renowned experts and 2500 delegates to boot.
I presented at a session on the Allied Health Professional pre-congress study day. I really enjoyed it and the meeting was well received. We had an exhibition stand representing both WLSinfo (www.wlsinfo.org.uk) and the EASO Patients Council. We received lots of visitors and queries.
The champagne moment came from inspirational speaker Sir Ranulph Fiennes, who presented a unique and stimulating talk.
My personal high point was the patient-led session on the Saturday morning. Patients Council members joined WLSinfo members in presenting eight stimulating, inspirational talks. The audience was captivated. All agree that having a patient presence was an excellent step forward in the development of the Congress; kudos to the IFSO planning team.